‘How do we find the right people, with the right skills, to fill the open positions at our organization?’ It’s a question asked by countless managers, business owners and HR professionals across every industry. But thanks to a new educational opportunity in Macomb County, help is on the way.
Funded by a $515,000 “Regional Talent Innovation Grant” from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and $906,000 of Community Development Block Grant - CARES Act funds, Macomb County and its partners will offer free career training to individuals in specific, high-demand occupations.
Eligible students will be low- to moderate-income individuals who have experienced a COVID-related hardship with an interest in increasing their earning potential by obtaining industry-recognized credentials in a variety of fields. Coursework will be provided by Macomb Community College and focused on two key sectors with several credentialing options:
- Health Care: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Dental Assistant, Laboratory Assistant, Phlebotomy
- Engineering & Advanced Technology: Controls Technician, Industrial Maintenance Technician, Robot Programmer, Robot Technician, Class A CDL Truck Driving and Marine Maintenance Technician
“We see a large number of open positions posted each month from great employers looking to hire right here in Macomb County,” said Vicky Rowinski, director of Macomb County Planning & Economic Development. “So our goal is to help fuel the talent pipeline and fill those jobs. Additionally, and partly due to COVID-19, our businesses now have less capital available to dedicate toward training programs. So we are encouraging our employers to refer otherwise hopeful applicants to the program as well.”
The ability to earn a credential in each of the offered programs ranges from 4-17 weeks. Tuition assistance also covers the costs of any needed books, supplies and/or testing fees.
“We are excited to partner with Macomb County to provide training that connects our residents to workplace opportunities and connects businesses to highly skilled employees,” said Donald Ritzenhein, provost and vice president for the Learning Unit, Macomb Community College. “These short-term programs provide graduates a jumpstart into high-demand fields that address the immediate workforce needs of area business and industry while launching graduates onto more career pathways as well.”
Other project partners include Macomb Community Action, which will take responsibility for securely verifying income eligibility, and Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works!, which will refer the program to the employers and individuals it serves.
For more information about the program and access to an application, visit www.macombgov.org/careertraining.
